Blood Flow Restriction Exercise for Prevention of Muscle Mass Loss in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review

Introduction: Intensive Care Unit Acquired Weakness (ICU-AW) is a prevalent complication impacting functional prognosis. Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training emerges as a promising strategy to promote hypertrophy and strength using low loads (20-30% 1RM) via metabolic stress, avoiding excessive joint or cardiovascular strain. Objective: To analyze, through a systematic review, the efficacy of BFR exercise in preventing muscle mass loss and improving strength in adult patients admitted to Intensive Care Units. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted searching PubMed, LILACS, PEDro, and SciELO databases using descriptors "Blood Flow Restriction", "Intensive Care Units", "Muscle Weakness", and "Rehabilitation". Expected Results: It is expected that BFR is a feasible and safe technique in the ICU setting, capable of attenuating disuse atrophy and promoting muscle thickness maintenance even with low loads.